City warns ratepayers about debt relief scam
Fake advert
THE eThekwini Municipality has urged residents to be vigilant of fake adverts and verify information through official municipal platforms and Sizakala Centres who have information.
Image: Chatsworth Crime Watch
THE eThekwini Municipality has distanced itself from a circulating fake advert about a 50% debt relief programme for the city's ratepayers.
Image: Supplied
The eThekwini Municipality has warned residents about a fake social media advert claiming that the City will launch a debt relief programme on November 1, 2025.
In a statement, the City said the information was false and urged the public not to fall for the scam. The bogus advert, which has been widely shared online, falsely claims that residents can apply for debt relief through individuals posing as municipal representatives.
“The information circulating on social media is incorrect and constitutes fake news,” the City said in a statement released today.
According to the municipality, all official programmes must first be submitted to the eThekwini Council for discussion and approval. The Revenue Management Directorate, which oversees debt management, confirmed that no proposal for a debt relief programme starting in November had been submitted.
Residents were urged to rely only on official municipal communication channels, including verified social media pages and Council publications, for accurate updates.
The City also stressed that no municipal programme is run in partnership with private individuals, and that residents should not pay any fees or charges for municipal services meant to assist them.
“The public is advised to remain vigilant and to avoid paying anyone claiming to represent the Municipality,” the statement added.
The circulating advert which had cellphone numbers, landline number and an email address, all of which have no ties with the municipality, offered a 50% debt relief for residents.
SUNDAY TRIBUNE